Blades seek new ‘keeper

DANNY Wilson will press ahead with his efforts to sign a new goalkeeper despite praising Steve Simonsen’s character and professionalism.

The Sheffield United manager told The Star after Saturday’s defeat at Stevenage that he has made an approach for Poland international Tomasz Kuszczak following reports in the player’s homeland that he had been prevented from joining Leeds.

But having seen Simonsen mark his return to the starting eleven with a near faultless display between the posts, Wilson repeated his desire to recruit someone capable of challenging the 32-year-old and teenage understudy George Long.

“That was the real Steve Simonsen we saw out there,” he said. “The goalkeeper everyone here knows that Simmo is.

“Yes, you can talk about his form the same as you can about anyone else who have ever played the game.

“But I’ve never doubted him because I know what he can do. I know because I see it every day in training.

“Simmo showed great character out there because he’s been under a lot of scrutiny of late and he deserved to hear the fans chanting his name.”

Wilson confirmed talks had taken place with Manchester United about the possibility of acquiring Kuszczak who has slipped to third in the pecking order at Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to have refused Kuszczak permission to join Leeds before celebrating his 25th anniversary in charge of the Premier League champions with a narrow victory over Sunderland.

However, it remains unclear whether finance, Kuszczak’s personal wishes or a combination of both were responsible for thwarting Wilson’s bid.

Doncaster Rovers have also been linked with Kuszczak’s signature.

“Yes, I did ask about him,” said Wilson. “But it was a while ago now and he‘s not here is he.

“That’s no reflection on Simmo or George. Everyone knows that I’d like to try and bring a third goalkeeper in.”

Wilson expressed his frustration at seeing United, now fifth in the League One table, lose ground on second-placed Huddersfield Town when Scott Laird’s late penalty saw them beaten 2-1 at Broadhall Way.

Simonsen, who produced a superb double save to deny Stacy Long and Craig Reid moments before Ched Evans cancelled-out Mark Roberts’ opener for the hosts, was powerless to prevent either of Stevenage’s goals.

“We brought Steve in for this one because of his experience,” said Wilson. “He’s faced this type of challenge before and that was important. He showed why we did.”